How Much Is a Tow Truck in My Area?
If you’ve ever experienced a broken-down car, you know that calling for a tow truck can feel intimidating. You know you need it, however, finding one can be a hassle. But once you are able to get one, another question pops into your head: how much does a tow truck cost? Truth be told, it depends on a few things.
The answer isn’t always straightforward because tow service prices depend on several factors. The distance your vehicle needs to be towed is one of the biggest price determinants. Shorter tows may be relatively inexpensive. But if you need a long-distance tow, the price can quickly add up. Vehicle size is another key factor. Larger vehicles like trucks or SUVs may cost more to tow than a standard sedan due to weight and type of tow truck required. Additionally, if your vehicle is stuck in a ditch, off-road, or in a particularly difficult position, you might have to pay extra for winching services.
Understanding these factors ahead of time can help you be prepared. The next time you find yourself needing a tow, you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected towing expenses. In the end, knowing what to expect can make the experience a little less stressful.
Reliable Towing Services
To be clear, minimizing your towing cost does not mean you have to sacrifice on quality. And importantly, you should never have to stoop to unscrupulous or unreliable towing companies to get the job done.
Finding a reliable tow truck service is the most important part when you’re in a tough spot. You don’t want to be left waiting on the side of the road for hours. While I will provide many recommendations for finding cheaper services, always make sure you do your research, and choose reliability when possible.
Factors That Affect Tow Truck Costs
When it comes to the cost of towing, your mileage may vary. Literally. Towing costs are based on a variety of factors, so before you cry wolf at high prices, considering the following:
- Distance – The farther you have to tow, the more expensive that tow will be. Towing companies will typically advertise a mileage rate based on the distance you need to be towed. To minimize your cost, try to tow as little distance as possible.
- Vehicle Size – The heavier your vehicle is, the harder it is to tow. In some cases, your vehicle may even need special equipment just to haul it around! If you have a bulky vehicle like a truck or RV, or even an expensive, luxury vehicle or something that is all-wheel drive, expect to pay hefty fees.
- Road Conditions – If you’ve gone off-road or your vehicle is in a difficult-to-reach location, such as a ditch, you will likely need specialized equipment, which may increase the cost.
- Time of Day – 24/7 towing is a blessing and a curse. It sure is convenient when it’s there, but convenience comes at a cost. If you need to be towed at night time, you are likely to incur additional fees.
No matter what, make sure you call for a quote before going with any particular towing service. Avoiding predatory towing prices is important. You want to be treated fair and ensure you get a good price. Insurers are starting to fight back against this practice, but it is still important to be informed.
Average Tow Truck Pricing Based on Distance
If you ever find yourself searching for “tow truck services near me“, you’ll likely come across different pricing options. On average, the tow truck service cost ranges between $75 and $125 for a short-distance tow. Most companies charge a base fee. This typically covers the first few miles. Furthermore, a company may charge additional tow cost per mile after that. But there’s more to it than just charging for the heck of it.
The following table provides a general breakdown of how much you can expect to pay for a tow based on how far you are going.
Distance | Average Cost
- 5-10 miles | $75 – $125
- 11-20 miles | $100 – $150
- 21-50 miles | $150 – $300
- 51+ miles | $200+ (varies per mile)
Some towing companies may charge an additional fee if they need to tow your car from an off-road location or a difficult-to-access area.
24-Hour Service Areas
One of the biggest concerns for drivers needing a tow truck is whether the service is available 24/7. Many tow trucking companies operate round the clock, but emergency services may cost more. If you ever find yourself needing a 24-hour tow truck service near me, it’s good to know what to expect. When you call for help in unusual hours, these are the sorts of fees you may incur:
- After-Hours Fee: $25 – $100
- Holiday or Weekend Fee: $50 – $150
Additional Fees
If you have special needs, you could incur even higher charges to get your car towed! For example, if your vehicle is stuck in a ditch or mud, you may need a winch hookup to get your vehicle clear, which could cost you extra. If you drive a heavy duty vehicle, or even a particularly luxury model, you may require specialized equipment to tow your vehicle, which will also cost you extra. Don’t be surprised if your quote is high when you tell the towing company that you drive an RV!
Best Tips to Save on Tow Truck Costs
When you are looking for towing company, don’t fret! There are lots of ways to save on cost if you know what to look for. Check the following options in order:
1. Auto Insurance Providers with Towing Coverage
Chances are, you have auto insurance. After all, it’s only legally mandated in 49 out of 50 states and DC, so unless you live in New Hampshire, you must have auto insurance. Many auto insurance companies offer concierge for roadside assistance and towing services as an add-on to their policies. The first thing you should do when you need towing is check your coverage to see if your insurance includes 24 hour towing or roadside assistance. If you can leverage the benefits of your insurance plan, they can call a tow for you, and you won’t have to pay the extra out of pocket.
You may be concerned about what happens to your insurance premiums if you need towing. Don’t be. In general, just because you call for roadside assistance does not mean your shiny safe-driving record is smeared; everyone breaks down sometimes. Of course, if this call for assistance comes with a complimentary accident, that accident will affect your insurance rates. Either way, that roadside assistance itself won’t affect your premiums, so make that concierge call ASAP.
2. Membership-Based Roadside Assistance Programs
Okay, so what if your insurance company doesn’t offer roadside assistance? That’s fine; you still have options. If you’ve prepared in advance, you may already be a member of a roadside assistance program. Programs like AAA, Good Sam, and the Drivesmart provide local care towing services with added perks like locksmith services, battery jumps, tire changes, and other roadside necessities that can get you up and running on the road. DriveSmart, in particular, provides customized assistance, helping you save on emergency towing and more.
Like with insurance policy roadside assistance, membership organizations like DriveSmart rigorously research and compile a repository of roadside assistance and towing services in your area, creating a network of assistance that can help you no matter where you might be broken down at. Any service provider that is in your roadside assistance network will be able to come to your rescue at no upfront cost to you, and they can provide a vast array of services, from the obvious towing to more niche and immediate needs, like battery jumping.
3. Local Tow Truck Companies
No membership to a roadside assistance program? That’s fine too; though, now we are in the territory of upfront payment. From here on out, you will be paying out of pocket for any services that you need, no matter how big or how small. Still, we can try our best to find the cheapest tow truck company.
On the cheaper end of things, you can find the small-name, local towing company. Big-name towing companies with networks of outposts around the US are usually burdened with the need to fund overhead for company organization. Due to this, these larger companies tend to charge hefty fees, and the service they provide is not guaranteed to be better for that price either. Small, local tow truck operators often offer more competitive prices, since they are competing locally for your dollar, and generally do not have the overhead required of larger companies.
Search online for affordable tow truck services near you and compare prices before calling a service. Looking for local companies in your immediate vicinity should be your top priority.
4. Towing Services Through Auto Repair Shops
Sometimes, for the experienced drivers out there, you may have an inkling as to what problems your vehicle is suffering. If you know that your vehicle is going to be in need of serious repairs, consider contacting a local auto repair shop for help instead of going to a towing company first. Some repair shops provide towing services as part of their repair package. If your car needs immediate repairs, these businesses can tow your vehicle at a discounted rate or even free if you’re getting work done at their shop.
If you know that you are going to need repairs for a fact, shop around for nearby auto shops. See if you can get a quote for the repairs you need over the phone so that you can make informed decisions about where to go.
5. Online Marketplaces and Towing Apps
Even if you are not a member of a roadside assistance program, that does not mean there are no ways to find well-established and trusted towing companies. Apps like Honk, Urgent.ly, and TowMyCar connect you with reliable towing services with upfront, transparent pricing. These platforms often partner with smaller providers, giving you access to cheap car towing services near you without hidden fees.
If you’re the indecisive type, this method is for you. The power to quickly compare nearby competitors is not to be underestimated. Make sure to check reviews of these companies online as well, once you feel close to making up your mind.
6. Discount Towing Services
If you’re lucky, some companies offer promotional pricing. Occasionally, you may see bright banners on websites that read something like, like “cheap car towing services $9.95” or “cheap car towing service $20 deals”. Obviously, these discount services may be limited. Be sure to read the fine print—these low prices often cover only a short distance, with additional mileage fees that can rack up rapidly if you aren’t careful.
Not to be a downer, but unscrupulous companies look to prey on vulnerable drivers who are stuck in unknown territory, and may lay out predatory practices looking to make a quick buck. Defend yourself against these with research and logic. If it looks too good to be true, chances are it is.
Contacting a Towing Service
If you need a tow truck, here’s what you should do:
1. Call a Trusted Tow Service: Search for “tow truck in my area” and check customer reviews.
2. Provide Location Details: Let them know exactly where you are.
3. Ask for a Price Estimate: Request the total cost, including additional fees.
4. Wait for Assistance: Stay safe while waiting for your tow truck.
DriveSmart Towing Available in Major Cities
DriveSmart: Your Go-To Solution for Roadside Assistance
Finding an affordable and reliable tow truck can be stressful, but with DriveSmart, you don’t have to worry. Our roadside assistance program offers 24/7 towing services, battery jumpstarts, flat tire changes, and more—all at a cost that won’t break the bank.
Join the DriveSmart Network today and unlock access to exclusive offers, personalized assistance, and reliable service when you need it most. Don’t wait until you’re stranded—get peace of mind now!
DriveSmart is Here to Help
Roadside assistance is more than just towing. It’s about freedom, safety, and the confidence to enjoy the open road. With the DriveSmart Network, you gain access to premium roadside services, personalized support, and exclusive perks tailored for car enthusiasts like you. Our powerful app connects you with technicians faster, so help is always just a tap away when you need it most.
Ready to drive smarter? Join today and enjoy peace of mind on every journey. Whether you’re a safe driver on a budget or need comprehensive coverage, we’ve got a plan that fits your lifestyle.
Life on the road can be unpredictable. Anything can happen when you least expect it. But with the DriveSmart Network, you’re always prepared. Unlock towing services, exclusive offers, and personalized assistance that keeps you moving forward. Sign up now and unlock exclusive discounts on towing, repairs, and more!
